Oh My Lover

PJ Harvey's 'Oh My Lover' delves into the intricate and often conflicting emotions that arise in relationships. The song's lyrics suggest a scenario where the protagonist is grappling with the complexities of love, acceptance, and perhaps even infidelity. The opening lines, 'Oh my lover, don't you know it's alright? You can love her, you can love me at the same time,' set the stage for a narrative that challenges traditional notions of monogamy and fidelity. Harvey's use of the word 'alright' repeatedly throughout the song seems to be an attempt to reassure both herself and her lover that their unconventional relationship can work, despite societal norms.

The second verse introduces a more intimate and personal tone with lines like 'Oh my sweet thing, oh my honey thighs, give me your troubles, I'll keep them with mine.' Here, Harvey portrays a deep emotional connection, offering to share the burdens and complexities of her lover's life. This verse highlights the theme of unconditional love and support, suggesting that true love involves accepting and sharing each other's flaws and difficulties. The repeated reassurance of 'it's alright' serves as a mantra, emphasizing the protagonist's willingness to embrace the relationship's challenges.

The final verse brings a sense of urgency and impending separation with lines like 'What's that color forming around your eyes? Once my lover, tell me that it's alright.' The imagery of 'color forming around your eyes' could symbolize emotional pain or tears, indicating that the relationship is under strain. The plea for reassurance and the repeated question 'Why don't you just say my name?' underscore the protagonist's need for validation and acknowledgment. The song concludes with a resigned acceptance of the situation, encapsulated in the repeated phrase 'there's no time,' suggesting that despite the complexities and emotional turmoil, the protagonist is ready to face whatever comes next.